The Most Common Moving Mistakes People Make

Moving from one home to another is a significant task that involves juggling a lot of functions. It requires planning, decluttering, packing, loading, unloading, unpacking, and countless other preparations.

There are bound to be a few hiccups when you’re dealing with this many moving parts. That’s why we’ve outlined the most common moving mistakes people make, so you can try to avoid them and enjoy a less stressful moving experience.

1. Not Giving Yourself Enough Time

Having plenty of time to prepare for a move is essential. But, unfortunately, packing an entire house typically takes longer than expected, especially when you run across closets or attics you haven’t organized in years.

Moving experts suggest tackling the moving process one room at a time. Use a calendar to designate plenty of days for packing leading up to your move. Procrastinating will only add stress to a task that can already be pretty overwhelming.

2. Taking Everything With You

There’s a reason we mentioned decluttering before your move. That’s because it’s essential.

Get rid of any items you haven’t used in years (sentimental items aside), from kitchen appliances to clothing and kid’s toys. Then, host a yard sale or donate these items, so you don’t move more things than you have to. This is also an excellent way to begin life in your new home with a clean slate.

3. Not Labeling Your Boxes

It’s easy to cut corners when you feel like you have a million tasks on your plate. However, failing to label your moving boxes should not be something you skip.

Experts suggest using a different color marker or tape to mark the boxes for each room in the house. Then, clearly label the boxes with what’s inside. Then, your future self will be thankful when searching for specific items at your new destination.

4. Forgetting to Transfer Utilities and Notify Companies

Checklists are beneficial throughout the moving process. First, create one with all the companies you need to notify before you move. Then, check the companies off your list as you complete the notifications.

Companies or organizations you’ll probably need to notify include:

the postal service
the IRS
utility companies (gas, water, electricity, internet)
the DMV
any subscription services

Be sure electricity, gas, water, and the internet have been installed or turned on at your new home. This will make your first days in your new home much more comfortable.

5. Not Buying Quality Boxes and Packing Materials

Moving to a new home typically means you’ll be packing a lot of valuable and breakable items. However, you can avoid causing damage to these items by buying quality moving supplies.

Experts suggest buying boxes of varying sizes, including a few boxes with inserts for breakable kitchen items, like wine glasses or coffee mugs. Other essential supplies are packing paper (not simply old newspapers or magazines), packing tape, and markers for labeling. Furniture blankets are recommended for large items.

Consider Hiring a Moving Company

The task of moving can be overwhelming, but a professional moving company can help. Movers can take care of all aspects of your move, from the logistics to packing, loading, unloading, unpacking, and more.